Planter



' Dec. 15, 1942. Y J. c. BOHMKER I 2,304,794

PLANTER Filed Jan. 51, 1938 10 Sheets- Sheet 1 John C. Bohmker INVENTOR.

BY W 40m ATTORNEY.

Dec. 15, 1942 J. c. BOHMKER PLANTER Filed Jan. 51, 1938 10 Sheets-Sheet 2 TT R 10 Sheets-Sheet :5

INVENTOR.

ATTORNEY.

. John CHBofzmker Dec. 15, 1942; J. c. BQOHMKER PLANTER Filed Jan. 51, 193B- Dec. 15, 1942.

J. C. BOHMKER PLANTER Filed Jan. 51, 1958 10 Sheets-Sheet 4 John cf bhmker ATTORNEY.

Dec. 15, 1942. J. c. BoHMKE PLANTER Filed Jan. 31, 1938 10 Sheets- Sheet 5 R. m 8N W hm M o b 6 c n m J ATTORNEY.

Dec. 15, 1942. J. c. BOHMKER PLANTER 10 Sheets- Sheet 6 Filed Jan. 31, 1938 INVENTOR.v

ewzg (UM- ATTORNEY.

Dec. 15, 1942. J. c. 'BOHMKE R 2,304,794-

PLANTER Filed Jan. 31, 1938 10 Sheets-Sheet '7 John C. fiohmkef INVENTOR.

ATTORNEY. v

Dec. 15, 1942.

14 J08 1 1-1326 ai I .JOZ

PLANTER Filed Jan. 31, 1938 J. C. B'OHMKER i 10 Sheets-Sheet 8 John C. Do/zmkef INVENTOR.

wzzlm'uw ATTORNEY Dec. 15, 1942. J. C.YBOHMKER v PLANTER Filed Jan. 31, 1958 10 Sheet-SheetS 1a zo 1.94 Joh abohmker INVENTQR.

ATTORNEY.

Dec. 15, 1942. J, c. BOHMKER 2,304,794

PLANTER Filed Jan. 51, 1938 10 SheetsSheet 10 John C. Boh1nker 1N VENTOR.

ATTORNEY.

Patented Dec. 15, 1942 PLANTER John C. Bohmker, Kankakee, IlL, assignor to Sears, Roebuck and 00., Chicago, 111., a corporation of New York Application January 31, 1938, Serial No. 187,812 8 Claims. (Cl. 111-56) This invention relates generally to agricultural implements, and more particularly to planters of the type adapted for individually and successively planting seeds, such as corn.

An object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved planter having a novel single frame construction instead of thev conventional two-part frame construction.

A further object of the invention is to provide a new and improved planter having a frame pivotally mounted on the axle and operatively connected to the pole for lowering or raising the seeding apparatus relatively to the ground when th pole is tilted upwardly or downwardly, respectively, relatively to the frame.

Another object is to provide a new and improved planter having a novel mechanism for operatively connecting the seeding apparatus with the wheels of the planter for actuating the seeding apparatus when the planter is moving forwardly, and which includes gears enclosed in housings and running in oil.

Another object is to provide a new and improved planter having a novel mechanism for operatively connecting the seeding apparatus with the wheels of the planter for actuating the seeding apparatus when the planter is moving forwardly and the runners comprising a part of the seeding apparatus are in engagement with the ground, regardless of the distance the runners extend into the ground, and for operatively disconnecting the seeding apparatus from the wheels when the runners are moved out of engagement with the ground. 4

A further object is to provide a planter having novel means for operatively disconnecting the seeding apparatus from the wheels when the planter is moved backwardly.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a planter having novel means for mounting the seeding apparatus on the frame whereby the seeding apparatus may be quickly and easily adjustably positioned for planting the seeds in rows spaced a desired distance apart.

A further and important object of the present invention is to provide a planter having improved and novel means for adjustably positioning the shoe or runner to a depth in the ground at which it is desired that the seeds be planted.

Another object is to provide an improved and novel planter which is properly balanced so that when the planter is in operation with'the operator sitting on the seat, there will be little or no weight at the outer end of the pole oron the necks of the draft animals. J

, abrasive action of dirt.

A further object is to provide a planter having an improved and novel seeding apparatus which is simple in construction and positive in operation, and in which the seed dispensing mechanism may be quickly and easily dissociated from the driving mechanism.

Another object is to provide a planter having an improved and novel fertilizer dispensing apparatus which is simple in construction, I and which is positive in breaking up and continuously discharging a uniform flow of the fertilizer.

A further object is to provide a planter having a fertilizer dispensing apparatus which will not clog up and which may be adjusted for regulating the flow of fertilizer continuously discharged.

Another object is to provide a planter having a fertilizer dispensing apparatus in which the operating mechanism is protected from contact with the fertilizer.

A further and important object is to provide a planter which is simple and durable in construction, efficient in operation, economically manufactured, and in which the operating mechanism may be protected to the greatest extent from the In the drawings illustrating a preferred embodiment of the invention:

Figure 1 is a top plan view of the planter embodying the present invention, certain portions thereof being broken away and shown in section for more clearly illustrating important details of the invention;

Figure 2 is a vertical sectional view taken along the line 22 of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a View similar to Figure 2 showing alternative positions of certain parts of the mechanism;

Figure 4 is a vertical sectional view taken substantiallyalong the line 44 of Figure 1;

Figure 5 is a fragmentary front sectional view showing the relationship of the seeding apparatus and the fertilizer dispensing apparatus with the frame, and taken as indicated by the line 55 in Figure 1;

Figure 6 is a fragmentary side elevational view of the structure shown in Figure 5;

Figures '7 and 8 are perspective detail views of members for connecting the planter shoe with the frame;

Figure 9 is a vertical sectional view of the fertilizer dispensing apparatus taken substantiall along the line 99 of Figure 5; r

Figure is a horizontal sectional .view taken substantially along the line Ill-40 of Figure 9;

Figure 11 is a vertical sectional view taken substantially along the line ll| l of Figure 9;

Figure 12 is a plan view similar to Figure 10 with certain members removed for revealing particular details of the fertilizer structure with greater clarity;

Figure 13 is a vertical sectional view of the seed dispensing apparatus taken substantially along the line l3l3 of Figure 5;

Figure 14 is a horizontal sectional view taken substantially along the line |4--l4 of Figure 13;

Figure 15 is a vertical sectional view taken substantially along the line Ill-45 of Figure 13;

Figure 16 is a plan view of a part of the structure shown in Figure 13, certain portions being shown in section;

*Figure 17 is a sectional detail view of a part of the mechanism for operatively connecting the seeding apparatus with the axle shaft;

Figures 18 and 19 are vertical sectional detail views taken substantially along the lines l3-I8 and iii-4'9, respectively, of Figure 14; and

Figure 20 is a plan view of the seed plate comprising a part of the seeding apparatus ilustrated in Figures 13, 14, and 15.

In the embodiment selected to illustrate the invention, a frame In is provided comprising a U-shaped frame member l2 having the ends thereof connected to a transversely extending angle bar l4 by any suitable means, such as bolts It.

A cross-bar 18 extends transversely of the U- shaped frame member l2, substantially parallel to the angle bar I4, and is'positioned below the U-shaped frame member. The cross-bar I8 is adapted for supporting seeding devices 20, and is provided with plate portions 22 which may be made integral with the cross-bar by welding and are connected with the U-shaped frame member by any suitable means, such as bolts 23.

As best shown in Figures 1 and 4, a pole 24 is provided which has one end pivotally connected to the cross-bar l8, and the other end secured to any suitable draft means, such as animals or tractor, for hauling the planter.

An eye-link 2B is fixedly connected to the crossbar l3 at the mid-portion thereof and is provided with an extension 21 fixedly connected to theangle bar I4 which reenforces the cross-bar l8 and distributes the load applied thereto. The eyelink 26 extends between a pair of spaced arms 28 fixedly connected to the pole 24 and is pivotally connected to the arms 28 by a pivot pin 30.

A rotatable axle shaft 32 for supporting the frame Ill extends through a transmission housing 34 and a bearing member 36 and is mounted in bushings 38 disposed in the housing 34 'and the bearing member 36. The transmission housing 34 is connected to the U-shaped frame member l2 by bolts 48, and the bearing member 36 is con nected to the U-shaped frame member by bolts 42.

The bushings 38 are preferably constructed of hard Wood, such as maple, impregnated with oil.

The bushings swell from impregnation with the oil and provide a tight running fit with the shaft 32 which prevents dirt from entering the housing 34, and also prevents oil contained in the housing from escaping. The wood bushings in the housing 34 may also continue to absorb oil contained in the-housing which provides for con- V tinuous lubrication of the bushings and shaft and reduces the wear on these members to a mini mum.

The wood bushings are inexpensive and may be readily renewed, and have been found to be very effective for the purposes intended.

A seat 44, on which the operator may sit while operating the planter, is mounted on a seat supporting structure 46 which is carried by the frame I2 and may be connected with the frame by one of each of the bolts 40 and 42 and a bolt 48.

.A pair of wheels 58 and 52 is mounted on the axle shaft 32 and are positioned on opposite sides of the U-shaped frame member I2. Each of the wheels 59 andr52 comprises a pair of spaced rims 34 connected by rib members 56. The wheels 58 and 52 are provided with hubs 58 and 68, respectively, which are connected to the rims 54 by spokes 62, and are mounted on the axle shaft 32. The spaced rims 54 of each wheel engage the ground on opposite sides of the rows of planted seeds and are adapted for covering the seeds with earth when the planter is in motion.

The hub 58 of the wheel 50 is fixed relatively to the axle 32 by means of a pin 63 which extends through aligned openings in the hub 58 and an opening in the shaft 32. The hub 60 of the wheel 52 is rotatably mounted on the axle 32 and is retained in position longitudinally of the shaft by means of a pair of collars 64. The collars are positioned at the ends of the hub 60 and are fixedly connected to the shaft 32 by pins tfiwhich extend through aligned openings in the collars and openings in the shaft.

It will be noted that the axle shaft 32 is provided with a plurality of openings 6! positioned at different distances from th frame for receiving the pins 63 and 66 in order that the wheels 50 and 52 may be adjustably positioned on the axle shaft so as to correspond to the rows in which the seeds are planted and which may be spaced a desired distance apart.

A driven shaft 18 extends through and is rotatably mounted in a gear housing 12 connected to the U-shaped frame member I2 of theplanter, and gear housings 14 comprising part of the seeding apparatus 20 carried by the cross-bar l8. The gear housing 72 is connected to the frame member l2 by means of bolts, one of the bolts 23 for connecting the cross-bar l8 to the frame also serving as a connection for securing the gear housing 12 to the frame.

The housing 12 also may be provided with wood bushings for receiving the shaft 10, as has been hereinbefore described in connection with the 1 housing 34.

The driven shaft i0 operates the seeding mechanism 28 and is operatively connected to the axle shaft'32.

The mechanism for operatively connecting the axle shaft 32 with the driven shaft 10 comprises a pair of aligned connecting shafts 16 and 1B. The connecting shaft '16 is rotatably mounted in the transmission housing 34 and has a gear. mounted thereon which is in mesh with a gear 82 fixedly mounted on the axle shaft 32. The gear 8!! is slidably and non-rotatably mounted on the shaft 16, such as by a key fixed to the shaft and slidably receivable in the hub of the gear 88.

As best shown in Figures 1 and 4, the end of the shaft 15 within the transmission housing 34 g is rotatably mounted in a supporting member 86 which is integral with the housing 34. An'expansion spring 88 is mounted on the shaft 13 within the transmission housing 34 and is :positioned between" a wall of the housing and the hub 84 of the gear 80 for yieldinglyretaining the gear 80 in meshing engagement with the gear 82.

The hub 04 is'provided with a circumferential recess 90 for receiving a yoke 92 which is connected to a slidable actuating'bar' 94 (Figures 2, 3 and 4) mounted in the transmission housing 34.

As will appear presently, theactuating bar 94 is operable by tilting the pole 24 for moving the ear 80 into or out of meshing engagement with the gear 82 depending on the movement of the pole 24 relatively to the frame member I2.

The structure for operatively connecting the actuating bar 94 with the pole 24 comprises an arm. 96 fixedly connected to the pole by a bolt 98. A yoke I is pivotally connected to the arm 96 and is providedwith a threaded opening for receiving the threaded end of a rod I02 for being adjustably connected'to'the rod I02. The other end of the rod I02 is provided'witha loopportion I03 slidably disposed on the actuating bar 94 and adapted for engagement with a pin I04 extending through and fixedly connected to the outer end portion of the actuating bar 94.

The connecting shaft I8 above referred to is rotatably mounted in the gear housing I2 and is provided with a gear I 06 fixedly mounted thereon which is in meshing engagement with a gear I08 fixedly mounted on the driven shaft 10.

A clutch III] is operatively connected with the shafts I0 and I8 and comprises clutch members H2 and II 4. The clutch member H2 is fixedly connected with the shaft I6 and rotatably receives the adjacent end of the shaft I8 for retaining the shafts l0 and I8 substantially in alignment.

On referring to Figure .17, it will be noted that the diameter of the opening in the clutch member II2 for receiving the shafts I6 and I0 is slightly greater at the end portion for receiving the shaft I8 than the diameter of the shaft I8 in order that the shaft I8 may swing transversely to its axis. This construction performs the function somewhat of a universal coupling and preventsstraining or breaking the shafts or other parts affecting the operation of the transmission mechanism which might otherwise result from flexure of the frame, as the planter travels over uneven or rough ground.

The clutch member H4 is slidably and non rotatably connected to the shaft I8 by means of a pin II6 which is fixed to the shaft I8 and extends through a slotted opening I I8 in the clutch member II4. v

The clutch members H2 and H4 are provided with teeth adapted for interlocking engagement, and a spring I20 is disposed on the connecting shaft 78 in engagement with the clutch member I I 4 for yieldingly retaining the teeth of the. clutch members in interlocking engagement.

When the planter is moving forwardly the clutch members I I2 and II 4 are interlocked for operatively connecting the shafts 13 and I8 whereby the shaft I0 may be rotated by the axle shaft 32 for actuating the seeding apparatus 20.

When the planter is moved backwardly, however, the rotation of the clutch member II 2 is reversed and the teeth thereof slide over the teeth of the clutch member H4 which remains stationary with respect to rotation. Thus it will be seen that the seeding apparatus 20 is actuated only when the planter is moving forwardly.

A pair of the seeding devices 20 hereinbefore referred to as carried bythe cross-bar I8 is positioned at opposite sides of the planter'frame; and

as each-of the seeding devices hasthe same construction, a description of A one will sufiice for both.'

As best shown in Figures 5 to 8, inclusive, each seeding device 20 is provided with a supporting bracket I22 having a top angle portion I24 and a U-shaped bottom or boot portion I20. The angle portion I24 is secured to the cross-bar I8 by means of bolts I28 which extend through openings I30 in the angle portion I24 of the bracket I22 and'corresponding openings I32 in thecross-bar' I8.

It will'be noted that the cross-bar I8 is preferably provided with a plurality of holes I32 for receiving the bolts I28 whereby the bracket I22 and the structure carried thereby may be adjustably positioned relatively to the frame for planting the seeds in rows spaced a desired distance apart. The gear housing I4 through which the driven shaft I0 extends, and which comprises a part of the seeding apparatus, is connected to the bracket I22 by bolts I34 and'l35 which extend'through'open'ings I36 and I3! in thebracket I22.

The seeding apparatus includes a seed container I38 mounted on a base I40 which in turn is mounted on the gear housing I4. The base I40 is provided with a seed dispensing mechanism which is operatively connected 'to the driven shaft 10 by mechanism which,'as shown in Figures 1 and 15, includes a gear I46 which is mounted on the driven shaft I0 within the housing I4 and has the hub portion I4I thereof projecting exteriorly-of the housing. The gear I46 is fixed to the shaft 10 by means of a pin I48 which extends through the hub I41 and an opening in the shaft I0; The shaft I0 is provided with several spacedopenings I49 (Figure 1) for receiving the pin I48 in order that the gear I46 may be adjustably positioned on the shaft I0 when the bracket; I 22 is adjustably positioned on the crossbar I 8.

ThejgearI46 is in mesh with a gear I50 disposed'within the housing I4 and mounted on a stud shaft IEI, as shown in Figures 13 and 15, whichextends through the top of the housing. Thestud shaft is operatively connected with the seed'dispensing mechanism carried by the base I49 for actuating the seed dispensing mechanism when the planter is movingforwardly.

The structure of the seed dispensing mechanism and the mechanism for operatively connecting the seed dispensing mechanism with the driven shaft I0 will be more fully described hereafte'r-r I When the planter is moving forwardly and the gear (Figures'l and 4) is in mesh with the gear 82 mounted on the axle shaft 32, the driven shaft'lil'actuates the seed dispensing mechanism for periodically releasing a seed from the container I38. The released seed drops into a spout I52 (Figure 13) from which it passes into a funnel I54 connected to the gear housing 14 by means of a bolt I55.

Runners or shoes I50 are provided for cutting the soil in order that the seeds may be planted therein, each runner comprising a blade portion 158 (Figures v1 to 6) which is continuous with spaced side portions I60, as shown in dotted lines in Figure 1. The runner I56 is connected with the bracket I22 by means of a filler member I62 illustrated in Figure 8. I I

The filler member I 62 comprises a'body portion I64 which fits snugly into the U-shaped portion of th bracket I22 and between the side portions I68 of the runner I56. A bolt l66extends through aligned openings I68 in the U-shaped portion of the bracket and an opening I18 in the body portion of the filler member for fixedly connecting the filler member to the bracket, and in like manner a pin I12 extends through aligned openings in the spaced sides I68 of the runner I66 and an opening H4 in the body portion of the filler member I62 for fixedly connecting the runner to the filler member. The runner I56 is connected to the angle-bar I4 by means of an anglebracket Il'6 which has one leg thereof secured to the front end of the blade portion I58 of the runner by a bolt I18, and-the other leg fastened to the angle bar I4 of the frame by a bolt 188. The angle-bar I4 has several spaced openings I82 for receiving the bolt I88 whereby the runner I56 may be connected to the angle-bar I4 in a position to correspond to the position in which the supporting bracket I22 is connected to the crossbar I8. From the above, it will be noted that the openings I82 in the angle-bar I4, the openings I32 in the cross-bar I8, the openings I49 in the driven shaft I8, and the openings 61 in the axle shaft 32, are disposed in corresponding positions in order that the seeding apparatus and the wheels may be disposed in cooperative relationshipfor the planting of the seeds in rows spaced given distances apart.

As best shown in Figure 8, the body portion I64 of thefiller member I62 is extended as at I84, and is provided with flange portions I86 which rest on the top edges of the side portions I68 of the runner I56.

The filler memberl 62 is provided with an opening I38 in the top thereof for receiving the lower end of-the funnel I54, (Figure 6), whereby the nected tothe supporting bracket I22 by a bolt which extends through an opening 2I4 (Figure '7) in the bracket member I22. 7 serves to conduct the fertilizer from the dispensing mechanism to the runner I56, the fertilizer being directed by the conduit and the guide member 218 to the ground on both sides of the runner I56 and inclose proximity thereto.

Figure 2 illustrates a position of the runner I56 in the ground for furrowing the ground whereby seeds may be planted when the planter is in motion.

Different types and kinds of seeds frequently require being planted at different depths in the seeds released by the seed dispensing mechanism maydrop from the funnel between the side portions I68 of the runner I56 and be deposited in a r furrowin the soil formed by the runner. Thus it will be seen that a simple and rugged structure is provided for supporting the seeding apparatus and for connecting the runner with the frame.

A fertilizer apparatus I90 is associated with each of the seeding devices 28, and includes a fertilizercontainer I92 mounted on a base I94 which in turn is mounted on a supporting standard I86. The supporting standard I96 is connected to the U-shaped frame member I2 (Figure 5) by the bolts 23 which also connect the cross-bar I8'to the U-shaped frame member.

A fertilizer dispensing mechanism, hereinafter described, is associated with the base I94, and is F T actuated by a rotatable shaft I98 which is journaled in bearing members 288 connected with the base I84 on the lower side thereof. The shaft I98 is driven from the shaft I8 by means of a chain 282 (Figure 1 to 4) which is mounted on ground, and, consequently, it is desirable that the runners may be disposed and retained in different positions relatively to the ground in order that furrows of the proper depth may be provided for receiving the particular kind of seeds which are being planted.

It is also desirable, when the planter is being driven to or from the field of operations, that the runners be retained in a position out of engagement with the ground, as shown in Figure 3.

The mechanism for'adjustably positioning the runners relatively to the ground and for retaining the runners out of engagement with the ground, as best shown in Figures 1 to 4, comprises a U-shaped yoke member-2H5 disposed in an inverted position on the angle-bar I4 and provided with outwardly'extending end portions 218 which are fixedly connected with the anglebar by means of bolts 228. The U-shaped member 2I6 comprises side portions 222 (Figure 3) which are positioned on opposite sides of the pole 24 adjacent the members 28 and serve to guide the pole when it is tilted vertically.

A rack 224 is positioned on one side of the pole the pole by the bolt 98 which also serves to connect the arm 96 and the members 28 to the pole.

' The end of the connecting arm 228 is secured iii) to the pole 24 by a bolt 238 which also serves to connect the members 28 with the pole. An actuating lever 232 has one end thereof pivotally connected to the pole by the bolt 238 and the other end provided with a handle portion 234.

sprocket wheels 284 and 286 connected with the shafts l8 and I98, respectively.

The fertilizer dispensing mechanism is operable by the shaft I98 when the planter is moving forwardly, for dispensing the fertilizer in a continuous flow through an opening in the base.

A flexible-conduit 288 has one end connected with the base I94 for receiving the fertilizer from the dispensing mechanism, and. the other end abutting the top edge of the runner I56 (Figures 1 to. 4). The lower end of the conduit 288 is fixedly and centrally positioned with respect to the runner I56 by means of a guide member 2I8 which straddles the blade portion I58 of the runner and a retaining strap 2I2 fixedly con- The actuating lever 232 is positioned adjacent the arcuate portion 226 of the rack member; as shown in Figures 2 and 3, and is providedwith an offset portion 236 positioned between the arcuate portion 226 of the rack and that portion of the lever arm connected to the'pole 24. As best shown in Figure l, a retaining plate Z33'is positioned on the opposite side of the rack with respect to the lever arm 232, and is fixedly connected to the lever arm 232 in any suitable manner. The actuating arm 232 and the retaining plate 238 are provided with aligned openings therethrough for receiving a locking bolti .248

which is adapted for engagement with the teeth;

221 of the rack for retaining the lever arm 232 in the desired positions. The retaining plate. 238 is provided with a projecting end portion 242 through which the locking bolt 248 slidably extends, and the locking bolt is normally retained in engagement with the teeth 221 of the rack by means of a spring 244 positioned between the projecting end portion 242 and a pin 246 connected with the locking bolt, The locking bolt 248 may be moved out of engagement with the The conduit I 288 teeth 2270f the rack by means of an actuating rod 246 having eye end portions Iljand 252,

the eye portion 250 being connected with a corresponding eye end formation of the locking bolt 240, and the eye portion 252 being connected with an actuating handle 254. The actuating handle 254 extends through a slotted opening in the lever otally connected to a side portion 222 of the: U- V shaped yoke member 2| 6 by means ,ofa pivot pin 262. A depending arm 264 is fixedly connected with the offset portion 236 of the actuatingarm 232 and is positioned between the'pivotal ,pin 26!] and the pivotal bolt 230. A spring 266 'has'one end connected with the depending arm 264yand the other end connected with an eye bolt 268, which in turn is secured to the cross-bar] 8 of the frame by means of a strap 210. Thestrap 210 is retained in position on the cross-bar I8 by the eye-bolt 268 which is threaded and provided with nuts thereon for being adjustably positioned with respect to the cross-bar I8, and adjusting the tension of the spring 266. I

The outer end (not shown) of the pole 24 is retained in a relatively fixed vertical position by reason of its being attached to the draft means, such as animals or atractor, by means of which the planter is pulled.

When the lever arm 232 is disposed in the position shown in Figure -3, the runners I56 are retained in position out of engagementwith the ground.- It will be noted that when the .runners I56 are positioned out of engagement with the round, as shown in Figure 3, the arm 96, fixedly connected with the pole 24, is: positioned for retaining the gear 80 out of mesh with the gear 82 in order to prevent undesired actuation of the seeding and fertilizing mechanisms when the planter is moving. The looped end I63 of the rod I02 connected with the arm .96 engages-the pin I04 on the end of the slidable rod 94 and retains the gear 80 against the compression spring. 88.

When it is desired to move the runners I56 from a position out of engagement with t the ground, as shown in Figure 3, to a position in engagement with the ground, as shown in Figure 2, for furrowingthe ground when the planter is moving forwardly, the lever arm 232 is released from locking engagement with the rack 224 and moved downwardly to the position shown in Figure 2. .7

The downward movement of the lever arm. 232 causes the pole 24 to be tilted downwardly from the frontend thereof and the frame I0 to be pivoted on the axle unit 32, for moving the runners I56 into engagement with the ground. When the runners are moved to the desired position relatively to the ground for providing a furrow of the proper depth, the lever arm 232 may be locked with the rack 226 for retaining the runners in the desired position. From the foregoing, it will be obvious that the lever arm 232 maybe readily adjusted to different positions forchanging the tilted position of the pole 24 and the pivotal position of the frame In whereby the runners I56 may be adjustably positioned and retained at the desired depth in the ground for providing furrows of the properdepthjn which the seeds may be plante When the lever arm 232 is to be raised or lowered with respect to the rack 224 for chan ing the positions of the runners, the handles 234 and 254 of the lever arm are grasped for moving the locking bolt 240 against the spring 244 and out of engagement with the rack 224. When the runners are disposed in the shifted position, the movable handle 254 may then be' released, and the spring 244 moves the locking bolt into engagement with the rack for retaining the lever arm, and, consequently, the runners, in their shifted positions.

When the lever arm 232 is lifted for lifting the runners I56, suchas from a position illustrated in Figure 2 to a position illustrated in Figure 3, the resistance to the lifting of the lever is compensated for by the weight of the operator on the seat 44 and by the tension of the spring 266, so that the lever may be easily operated with little effort on the part of the operator.

As best shown in Figure 3, when the runners I56 are retained in a position above the ground so thatthe planter may be driven without furrowing the ground, the gear is held in a position out of mesh with the gear 82.

When the lever arm 232 is released from the rack 224, however, and is moved downwardly for lowering the runners I56 toward the ground, the arm 96, fixedly connectedto the pole 24, and the rod I62 are moved for-releasing the slidable bar 94, whereupon the spring 88 moves the gear 86 into mesh with the driving gear 82 mounted on the axle shaft 32;

When the runners are positioned slightly above the ground or are about to engage the ground during their downward movement, the gear 86 moves into full mesh with the gear 82, so that as the runners engage the ground and continue their downward movement to the position, desired, the looped portion I63of the rod I02 merely slides along the bar 94 and does not further alfect the relationship of the gears 89 and 62.

Thus it will be noted that the gear 86 is moved into and out of mesh with the gear 82 by the relative movements of the pole 24 and the frame It only when the runners are out of engagement with the ground and that the gears are in mesh for actuating the seeding and fertilizer apparatus only when the runner is in engagement with'the ground. It willalso be noted that the gears 80 and 82 are in full mesh regardless of the depth of the runners in the ground and are wholly unaffected by the relative movements of the pole 24 and the frame I!) when the runners are'adjustably positioned for furrowing the ground.

From the above description, together with the preceding description of the clutch mechanism, it will be observed that the seeding apparatus and the fertilizer apparatus will be actuated only when the runners are in engagement with the ground and the planter is moving forwardly.

The seeding apparatus hereinbefore referred tois illustrated in detail in Figures 13 to 16, inclusive, and Figures 18 to 20, inclusive.

As best shown in Figures 13, 15, and 16, the the driven shaft In extends through the gear housing I4 and is journaled in a bearing member 300 which has oneend connected with the gear housing I4 and the other end abutting the gear I46 mounted on the shaft I0;

The housing I4 is provided with a cover portion 302 which is secured to the housing by means of the bolts I34.

The cover 302 of the housing is provided with an upwardly extending and centrally positioned hub portion 304 in which is journaled the stud shaft I5I.

The stud shaft has the lower end thereof journaled in the bearing member 300, and the other end thereof projects outside of the hub portion 304 and is provided with a diametrical pin 305 fixedly connected therewith which rides on the outer end of the hub portion 304. a

The gear I50 is fixedly mounted on the stud shaft IEI and is in mesh with the gear I43 mounted on the driven shaft I foroperatively connecting the stud shaft with the driven shaft l8.

The gear housings I4 as well as the gear housings34 and I2, hereinbefore described, are filled with oil which lengthens the life of the gears many times that which they would otherwise have.

As shown in Figure 13, the base plate E43 of the seeding apparatus is hingedly connected to the cover portion 302 of the gear housing I4 by means of a hinge 303. I

The base plate I40 is coaxial with the stud shaft I5I, and is provided with a peripheral flange for receiving the seed container I38 which is fixedly connected to the base plate by hook elements 3"] (Figures 14 and 15) extending through openings in the container and openings in projecting flanges integral with the base plate.

The base plate I40 is provided with a top surface 3I2 inclined inwardly and downwardly toward an annular opening 3I4, and is further provided with an integral bridge portion 3I3 which extends over a part of the annular opening 3M.

The annular opening 3I4 in the base plate surrounds a cover portion 3I8 integral with the bridge portion 3IB and the base plate, said cover extending over the stud shaft I5I and preventing the seeds in the container or foreign matter from interfering with the operation of the stud shaft and other parts associated therewith as hereinafter described.

As best shown in Figures 13, 15, and 29, a seed plate 320 is rotatably mounted in the base plate I40 below the cover portion 318 and the bridge portion 3I6 of the plate member I40, and is provided with a central opening 322 for receiving the top end of the stud shaft and the pin 305 connected therewith, said opening having keyways (Figure 20) for the ends of said 'pin, whereby the seed plate may be rotated by the stud shaft.

The seed plate is provided with. a plurality of openings 324 therethrough which are inregistration with the annular opening 3I4 in the base plate and are of sufiicient size for receiving only one seed at a time.

As best shown in Figures 13 and 15, a retaining plate 326 is detachably connected to the base I40 by means of lugs 323 pivotally connected to the base I40; The lugs 328 are adapted for retaining the plate 326 and the seed plate 320 in operative relationship. with the base plate I 40 when the base I40 is swung on the hinge 308 away from the top 302 of the gear housing I4. The retaining plate 326 is provided with a central opening for receiving the hub portion 304 of the gear housing 1.4, and is also provided with an outwardly and downwardly inclined nozzle 330 having its outer end or spout I52 extending into the top of the funnel I54.

The entranceopening to the nozzle 330 is positioned beneath the bridge portion 3H5 of the base I40 and is adapted forindependent registration with each of the openings 324 in the seed plate 320 as the seed plate is rotated by the stud shaftI5I. v a W The bridge portion 3I'5 of the base I40 covers a portion ,of the seed plate 320 and provides a passageway 33I' ,(Figures' 13 and 1 9) having an entrance opening 33I- and anexit opening 331 with respect to the rotation of the 'seed-{plate which rotates in the direction of the arrows'332 (Figure 14). r

As best shown in Figures l4, l5, and 18, a guard member 334 extends within an opening in the bridge portion 3I6 of the base I40 and ispivotally mounted by means of aligned integral pivot lugs 336 receivable in corresponding recessesin the bridge portion.- I

The pivot lugs are retained in the recesses in the bridge portion 3I6 by means of a housing 338 which covers a portion of guard member extend ing abovethe bridge, and which is fixedly connected to the bridge by a screw 343. as shown in Figures 14 and 19, which extends through an opening in the top of the housing 338 and into a threaded opening in the bridge.

The outer end of-the guard member 334 rides on the top surface of the seed plate320 with which it is yieldingly retained in pressing engagement by a spring 342 positioned betweena portion of the guard member 334 within the housing 338 and the bridge portion 3l6 of the base The guard member 334 prevents any seeds from entering the passageway under the bridge 3H5 except those which have fallen into the openings 324 in the seed plate and lie Wholly within the openings. Should a seed sofall as to lie only partially within an opening 324, when the seed con ta-cts the guard member334' it may either be moved wholly within the opening 324 or ejected therefrom.

Should the seed become wedged between the guard member 334 and an edge of an opening 324, then the guard member mayyield' in order to permit the seed to travel into the passageway 33I (Figure 18).

A seed ejector 344 is pivotally mounted in an opening in the bridge portion 3I8 of the base I40 and is positioned beneath the housing 338, as shown in Figure 19-. The ejector 344 is provided with aligned integral pivot lugs 346 receiv-' able within corresponding recesses in the bridge portion and retained in the recesses by the housing 338.

The ejector 344 is provided with a head portion 348 whichv extends into the passageway 33-I beneath the bridge 313 and rides on the seed plate 320 with which it is retained in pressing engagement by a spring 350 positioned between the ejector and the-housing 338.

The head. 348.: of. the ejector 344 is positioned over the entrance opening of the nozzle 330 (Figwe 13) in the plate 326, a'ndia'sthe seed plate 320 isrotated, the ejector head is driven successively into. each of the openings 324 by the spring 350 for forcibly ejecting the, seed. from the opening 324 in the seed plate and into the opening in the nozzle from which theseed passes into the funnel I54 and then to'theground.

The structure for retaining, the base plate I40 in the position shown in Figure 13 and. for retaining the seed plate 32 61! in operative relationship with the stud shaft comprises an arcuate arm 352. (see alsoFigure 16) positioned on the opposite side of the gear housing I4 relatively to the hinge 308. The. arm 352 has the ends thereof connectedto thegear housing "by two of the bolts I34 which connect'the top 302 of the gear housing to the top portion of the housing. One end of the arm 352 is pivotally mounted and the other end is provided with a slot for receiving the respective bolt in order that the arm may be swung outwardly.

A locking bolt 354 extends through an opening in the arm 352 and a slotted opening in a projection 356 integral with the base I 40. The looking bolt 354 is provided with a head portion 358 which is held in yielding engagementwith the projection 356 by means of a spring 360' disposed on the bolt and positioned between the arm 352 and a pin 362 connected with the lower end of the bolt 354.

When it is desired to utilize the planter for planting seeds of a different size, the seed plate 320 may be readily removed and replaced by a seed plate having openings 324 of the required size.

In order to remove the seed plate 320, the looking bolt 354 is first lifted against the tension of the spring 360 and swung outwardly out of engagement with the projection 356. The base I40 may then be swung upwardly on the hinge 308 for moving the retaining plate 326 out of engagement with the hub 304 of the gear housing and consequently the seed plate 329 out of operative engagement with the stud shaft pin 306. a The plate retaining lugs 328 (Figure 15) may then be turned for releasingthe plate 326 from the base I40 after which the seed plate 320 may be removed and replaced by the seed plate desired. After the seed plate 320 and the retaining plate 326 are reconnected with the base plate I40, the base plate may again be swung into the position shown in Figure 13 for operatively connecting the seed plate with the stud shaft pin 306.

Thus itwill be seen that a seeding apparatus is provided which is relatively simple in construction, positive in operation, and readily adaptable for use in planting seeds of different sizes.

Referring more specifically to the fertilizer apparatus I90, as illustrated in Figures 9 to 12, inclusive, the base I94 is preferably a metal casting formed for providing a circumferential shoulder on which the fertilizer container I 92 is supported and provided with radial projections 310 to which the fertilizer container is connected by means of hook shaped elements 312 which extend through openings in the container and the projections 310. The base I94 is provided with a circular raised flange 314 which engages the inner surface of the container for preventing thefertilizer from leaking out between the container and the base.

The top of the container I92 may be provided with a cover 316 which is movably connected to the container by a hinge 318 and is retained in the closed position shown in Figure 9 by a spring actuated locking latch 380 connected to the con-' bearing post 386. A rotary plate 396 is rotatably mounted on the bearing post 366 and is provided with a downwardly extending annular flange portion 392 receivable in the annular recess 388 of the base. The rotary plate 390 is retained on the bearing post 386 by means of a belt 394 which extends upwardly through the center of the bearing post and a washer 396 disposed on thetop of the bearing post. The washer 396 extends over the top of the hub portion 398 of the rotary plate 399 and prevents the rotary plate from being displaced from the bearing post.

A cone shaped hood 406 is disposed on the rotary plate 390 over the bearing post 336 and the hub portion 398 of the rotary plate and is fixedly connected to the rotary plate by means of screws 402.

The hood 400 protects the bearing post 386 and the hub 398 of the bearing plate from the fertilizer and positively prevents the fertilizer from filtering in and getting around the hub. As shown in Figure 9, a grease cup 404 is connected to the base I94 on the under side thereof and is incommunication with the recess 368 for filling the recess with grease and providing positive lubrication of the bearing post. I

As best shown in Figures 9 and 11, the rotary fertilizer plate 390 is provided with an annular row of integral gear teeth 406 whichare positioned on the under side of the plate and are receivable in an annular recess 408 in the base I94. The recess 408 terminates at its outer edge in an annular upwardly extending flange 440, and the flange M0, together with the flange 314, and the intermediate portion of the base I94, provides a channel shaped trough 4I2 forreceiving the fertilizer. I

The rotary fertilizer plate 390 is provided with a downwardly extending annular flange 4I4 which is positioned outside of and in a running fit with the annular flange 4I0 integral with the tainer I92 and adapted for engagement with the cover 316.

The seed container I38 hereinbefore described may also be provided with a similar cover and hinge structure and a latch for retaining the cover in a closed position.

As best shown in Figures 9 and 12 the base I94 is provided with a depending projection 382 for being connected to the supporting bracket I96 by bolts 384.

The base. I94 is further formed for providing an upwardly extending bearing post 386 and an annularrecess 388 about the base portion of the base. The flanges M0 and M4 retain the fertilizer in the trough 412 and prevent the fertilizer from working underneath the plate 390 and clogging the teeth 406 or otherwise affecting the operation of the mechanism.

As shown in Figures 9 and 11, the fertilizer plate 390 is provided with a plurality of radially extending integral teeth 4I6 which extend into the trough 4I2 between the plate 360 and the flange 314 of the base, and are adapted for moving the fertilizer continuously through the trough to an opening M8 in the base I94.

As best shown in Figures 11 and 12, the fertilizer plate'390 is rotated by means of a pinion gear 420 which is fixedly mounted on the shaft I98 and is in mesh with the teeth 406 of the fertilizer plate. The pinion gear 420 extends through an opening 422 in the base I94 and is positioned adjacent one of the bearing members 200 connected to the base for supporting the shaft I98. A collar 424 is also fixedly connected to the shaft I98 adjacent the other shaft supporting member 200 in order to hold the shaft against longitudinal movement.

As has been already described, the shaft I96 is driven from the shaft 16 by means of the chain 202 (Figures 1 to 4) which is mounted on the sprocket 206 fixedly connected to the shaft I98.

As best shown in Figures 9 and 10, the base casting I94 is provided with a radial extension 426 and a pair of depending flanges 420 posi-.

tioned on the lower side of the base and an o-ppositesides of the opening 4I8.

The flexible conduit 288 heretofore referred to,

' such as a hose or coiled spring tube, is connected to the depending flanges 428 by pin or bolt 432, and is adapted for receiving the fertilizer which passes through the opening M8 in the base as a result of the rotation of the fertilizer plate 398.

A toothed wheel or gear 433 is rotatably mounted on the pin 432 between the flanges 428 .and is provided with teeth 434 which extend through the opening 418 in the base and are in mesh with the teeth 41B of the fertilizer plate 398.

The toothed wheel 433 is rotated by the fertilizer plate 390 and serves to keep the spaces open between the teeth 41B of the fertilizer plate and to prevent the fertilizer from clogging the spaces between the teeth 416, regardless of the amount of the fertilizer permitted to flow through the opening 418 in the base 194. The toothed wheel or gear 433 is also provided with transversely extending integral lugs 436 which aid in breaking up the fertilizer and prevent it from packing or clogging the space between the flanges 428.

As best shown in Figures 9 and 10, a gate 438 which is in the nature of a metal plate is adjustably positioned on the extension 428 and is connected therewith by means of a bolt 44!! which extends through an opening in the extension and a slotted opening 442 in the gate plate.

The plate 438 extends'through an opening in the flange 3'14, as shown in Figure 9, and is adapted for regulating the flow of the fertilizer through the opening 418 in the base 194. The

gate plate 438 may be quickly and easily adjusted and retained in the desired position for regulating the flow of the fertilizer through the opening 418 by means of a wing nut 444 disposed on the bolt 448.

As shown in Figures 9 and 10, a guard plate or shelf 446 is connected to the wall of the container 192 by bolts 448, and is positioned over the opening 418 in the base 194 and above the teeth 416 of the fertilizer plate 398. The shelf 44B is positioned in close proximity to' the the teeth 418 so that any lumps of the fertilizer which are carried along by the teeth are sheared between the teeth and the shelf and thereby completely broken up. The shelf also provides for a continuous and uniform flow or delivery of the fertilizer by the teeth 416 to the opening 418 in communication with the conduit 208.

As shown in Figures 9, l0, andll, an agitator bar 458 is fixedly connected to the top of the hood 408 by means of a bolt 452, and is positioned between spaced flanges 454 (Figures 10 and 11) integral with the hood for rigidly retaining the bar in position.

The agitator bar is rotated by the fertilizer plate 398, and effectively breaks up the fertilizer should it become a hardened mass for any reason. The agitator bar also prevents the fertilizer from remaining suspended in the container 192 out of contact with the teeth 416 when the mechanism is in operation, which might otherwise happen should the fertilizer become hard or set in the container.

It will be observed that the gate plate 438 may be positioned for completely closing the outlet opening 418 in the base and preventing the escape of the fertilizer. In such event all that happens is that the fertilizer is ground between the teeth 416 and the shelf 446. It will also be noted that the fertilizer plate 390 and the associated mechanism may be operated in either direction, and, consequently, it is not necessary to provide a left hand unit and a right hand unit, as the fertilizer apparatus above described maybe used in either position on the planter-frame.

From theforegoing description it will be seen that an agricultural planter is provided which seems to anticipate every contingency. and accomplishes the objectives hereinbefore set forth;

The structure described provides a planter which is' extremely sturdy and durable in construction, although exceptionally flexible and adaptable in operation tomeet the requirements of the conditions encountered. 1

Furthermore, not the least of the many'advantages attained by the structure for providingthe planter is that it is unusually light in weight and may be manufactured very economically. -t

It is evident that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention, and, consequently, it is intended that the invention shall be limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

I claim:

1. An agricultural planter comprising a frame mounted on an axle carried by transport wheels and having a front portion and a cross member positioned in spaced relationship,-a seeding apparatus carried by the frame and operatlvely connected to the axle for dispensing seeds, a draft pole pivotally connected to thecross member, a

lever having an end thereof pivotally connected to the draft pole and extending rearwardly therefrom, a'link pivotally connected to the front portion of the frame and an intermediate portion of the lever for lifting and lowering the seeding apparatus when the lever is moved in given directions, a depending arm fixedly connected to the lever and positioned between the pivotal axis of the lever and the pivotal connection of the link with the lever, and a sp'ring'connected to the depending arm and the cross member of the frame for lessening the resistance to movement of the lever in a direction to lift said seeding apparatus.

2. An agricultural planter comprising a frame 1 mounted on an axle carried by transport wheels,

- a seeding apparatus carried by the frame and operatively connected to the axle for dispensing seeds, a draft pole pivotally connected to the frame, a lever and rack attached to the pole, said lever having an end pivotally connected to the pole and a detent for engagement with the rack, a link having one end pivotally connected to the lever between the pivotal axis of the lever and the detent and the other end pivotally connected to the frame for lifting and lowering the seeding apparatus when the lever ismoved in given directions, a depending arm fixedly connected to the lever and positioned between the pivotal axis of the lever and the pivotal connection of the link with the lever, and a spring connected to the depending arm and the frame for lessening the resistance to movement of the lever in a direction to lift said seeding apparatus. i

3. An agricultural planter comprising a frame mounted on an axle carried by transport wheels,

'- a seeding apparatus carried by the frameand operatively connected to the axle for dispensing seeds, a draft pole pivotally connected to the frame, a guide member for the pole connected to the frame, a lever and rack attached to the pole, said lever having an end pivotally connectedto the pole and a detent for engagement with the rack, and a link having one end pivotally connected to the lever between the pivotal axis of the lever and the detent and the other end pivotally connected to the guide member for lifting and lowering the seeding apparatus when the lever is moved in given directions.

4. An agricultural planter comprising a frame mounted on an axle carried by transport wheels and having a front portion and a cross member positioned in spaced relationship, a seeding apparatus carried by the cross member and provided with a runner connected to the front portion of the frame, a draft pole pivotally connected to the cross member, a U-shaped member connected to the front portion of the frame and extending over the draft pole, a lever and rack attached to the pole, said lever having an end pivotally connected to the pole and a detent for engagement with the rack, and a link having one end pivotally connected to the lever between the pivotal axis of the lever and the detent and the other end pivotally connected to the U-shaped member for lifting and lowering the seeding apparatus when the lever is moved in given directions.

5. An agricultural planter comprising a frame mounted on an axle carried by transport wheels, a seeding apparatus carried by the frame for dispensing seeds, a draft pole pivotally connected to the frame, a lever and rack attached to the pole, a link connected to the lever and the frame for lifting and lowering the seeding apparatus when the lever is moved in given directions, transmission element's operatively connecting the seeding apparatus with the axle, an arm fixedly connected to the pole, and a link pivotally connected to the arm and operatively connected to one of the transmission elements for moving said transmission element into and out of engagement with another transmission element when the seeding apparatus is lowered and lifted, respectively.

6. An agricultural planter comprising a support mounted on an axle carried by transport wheels, a seeding apparatus carried by said support and operatively connected to said axle when the planter moves forward for dispensing seeds, said apparatus being operatively disconnected from said axle when the planter moves rearward, a draft member pivotally connected to said support, a lever pivotally connected to said draft member, a link connected to said support and lever and operative for lifting and lowering said seeding apparatus when said lever is moved in given directions, a dependingarm fixedly connected to said lever, and a spring connected to said depending arm and to said support for lessening the resistance to movement of said lever in a direction to lift said seeding apparatus.

7. An agricultural planter comprising a frame mounted on an axle carried by transport wheels, a seeding apparatus carried by said frame and operatively connected to said axle for dispensing seeds, a draft pole pivotally connected to said frame, a guide member for said pole and connected to said frame, a lever and rack attached to said pole, said lever having a detent for engagement with said rack, and a link pivotally connected to said lever and to said guide member for lifting and lowering said seeding apparatus when said lever is moved in given directions.

8. An agricultural planter comprising a frame mounted on an axle carried by transport wheels, at seeding apparatus carried by said frame and provided with a runner connected to said frame, a draft pole pivotally connected to said frame, a U-shaped member connected to said frame and extending over said draft pole, a lever and rack attached to said pole, said lever having a dentent for engagement with said rack, and a link pivotally connected to said lever and to said U- shaped member for lifting and lowering the seeding apparatus when said lever is moved in given directions.

JOHN C. BOHMKER. 

